Lee Health: Robotic surgery program focuses on excellence, innovation
At Lee Health, we have not only embraced robotic-assisted surgery, but we are also at the forefront of surgical innovation with a fleet of 27 state-of-the-art robotic systems and a team of more than 80 robotic surgeons.
Throughout Lee Health, our surgeons perform a wide range of procedures, from lung biopsies and lobectomies to abdominal wall reconstruction, hysterectomies, prostatectomies, hip and knee replacements, spine fusions and more. Over the past year, there has been a substantial 64% increase in robotic procedures because of the technology adoption across various specialties.
“Our robotic program is not only focused on the quantity but also on the safety and quality of surgeries,” explains Juan Ibarra, M.D., MS, system robotic surgery program manager.
Robotic surgery uses a high-definition camera and precision tools, which allows surgeons to perform complex procedures with more accuracy and smaller incisions, which means patients experience: Smaller scars, shorter hospitalizations, lower risk of adverse side effects, faster overall recovery time, less pain, less blood loss and quicker return to normal activity.
“We have seen significant improvements in crucial metrics (with robotic surgery), such as reduced lengths of stay and 67 percentg of our robotic surgery patients returning home the same day,” said Dr. Ibarra. “This focus on quality and safety extends to enhancing patient outcomes, exemplified by our achievements in reducing surgical site infections, blood transfusions, readmissions and reoperations.”
Dr. Ibarra adds that the robotic surgery program at Lee Health has embraced a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. “We have integrated new technologies, like the robotic-assisted bronchoscopy and the water-jet ablation of the prostate, further enhancing the scope of care for our patients without requiring them to leave the community,” he said.
Our website, LeeHealth.org/our-services/general-surgery/robotic-surgery, features information on the various specialties using robotic surgery, examples of the surgical systems we employee and frequently asked questions.
To learn even more about robotic surgery, the Healthy Life Center at Lee Health Coconut Point (23450 Via Coconut Point, Estero) is hosting two events on Monday, Feb. 19.
Meet the Surgical Robot! 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. Stop by for a demo and introduction to the surgical robot — this is an opportunity to see and touch one of our surgical robots.
What is Robotic Surgery? From 1 until 2 p.m. Learn how our experts use robotics in the surgical field and the benefits related to the procedures and recovery times. Learn more about the most common robotics procedures and how they are incorporated here at Lee Health.
For more information or to register to attend one or both events, call 239-468-0050.
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Larry Antonucci, M.D., MBA is the president & CEO of Lee Health, Southwest Florida’s major destination for health care offering acute care, emergency care, rehabilitation and diagnostic services, health and wellness education, and community outreach and advocacy programs. Visit LeeHealth.org to learn more.
This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: Lee Health: Robotic surgery program focuses on excellence, innovation
